Imelda "Corky" Rose Horn

Imelda "Corky" Rose Horn, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and dedicated nurse, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 24, 2023, in Portage, MI. She was born on February 2, 1932, in Litchfield, IL. Corky was the loving daughter of Walter and Laura (Gerling) Semplowski. Sadly, her father passed away when she was a young girl, leaving a lasting impact on her life. She graduated from Litchfield High School.

Corky's journey took her from considering a life as a Nun to pursuing a career in nursing. But first, one of Corky's proudest accomplishments was her loving marriage to Meredith Horn on May 26, 1952. Their love story began with a proposal on their second date and led them to embark on many adventures together. Following Meredith's discharge from the military, they made a home in Washington DC before settling down in Portage, MI in 1955. Their devotion to each other served as an inspiration to all who knew them.  

Once in Portage, she attended Kalamazoo Practical Nursing School. It was there that she discovered her passion for caring for others and dedicated the next fifteen years as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Borgess Medical Center. Corky touched many lives during her tenure at the medical center, showing compassion and kindness to all those under her care.

Corky cherished her role as a mother and grandmother above all else. Her four children and grandchildren brought immeasurable joy into her life. She celebrated every milestone with unwavering support and love for each family member.

Known for her strength of character and sense of humor, Corky had an unwavering faith that guided her throughout her life. She was an active member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Kalamazoo where she volunteered as an usher and dedicated much of her time to pastoral care visitations. Corky's selflessness and willingness to lend a helping hand made a significant impact within the church community.

Outside of her nursing career and church involvement, Corky adored her feline companions. Among them was her beloved cat, Paint Brush, who held a special place in her heart. She found solace and comfort in the company of these furry friends.

Corky's life will be remembered and celebrated by all those whose lives she touched. Her loving spirit, unwavering faith, and dedication to others serve as an enduring legacy. She will forever be cherished as a devoted wife, beloved mother, doting grandmother, and compassionate nurse.

Her legacy will endure through the lives she touched and the memories she created with her loved ones. Corky Rose Horn will always be remembered for her unwavering faith, loving nature, and dedicated service to others. May she rest in eternal peace as her spirit continues to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Imelda “Corky” Horn, of Portage passed away on Friday, November 24, 2023 at the age of 91.

She was preceded in death by her husband Meredith, her parents, and stepfather, Christopher Zuber, and one brother: Walter Semplowski. She is survived by her four children: Denise (Daniel) Myers, of Jenison; Elaine Hammond, of Portage; Lucinda (Bradley) Michael, of Vicksburg; and Michael Horn, of Vicksburg; ten grandchildren and five great grandchildren, one great great granddaughter; and two sisters: Martha Hahnenkamp and Mary Best; several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 1, 2023 at 11am at St, Monica Catholic Church, 534 West Kilgore, Kalamazoo. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4 to 7pm at the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI. There will be a rosary on Thursday beginning at 6:30pm. The family will also receive friends at the church one hour prior to the service. Corky requested for her funeral mass that those that attend wear joyful colors.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Corky’s guestbook and/or share a member with her family. Contributions may be made to St. Monica Catholic Church and/or Centrica Care Navigator.

The Horn family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.